For health. For beauty. For you.

The process of choosing the right cosmetic dentist can be a very difficult one, especially in an area as large as Austin, Texas. Your smile is one of your most precious assets, and you do not want to entrust it to just anyone. And, if you are looking for a dentist for your family, the decision is even more difficult because you need someone who can skillfully address a wide range of functional, as well as aesthetic dental, issues.

To help you find someone who fits your needs, the dental team at The Center for Cosmetic & General Dentistry in Austin, Texas has put together a list of factors to keep in mind as you consider your options.

Is the dentist prepared to handle serious dental problems as well as simple cosmetic issues?

Ideally, your dentist should be prepared to handle the entire range of dental care you need. Not only is this convenient for you, but it ensures better care for you, since your dentist is looking not only at the cosmetic side, but at the health side of dentistry as well. This means he will not just slap a cosmetic patch on top of a sick tooth but is prepared to address any issues you may have. You are also more likely to find a dentist who is trying to develop a long-term relationship with you as a patient, not just trying to make a quick buck, which will again help you get the best care

What level of training has the dentist achieved?

Every dentist has to achieve a certain level of training in order to be certified by the state of Texas to practice dentistry, but there is a wide range in the level of training achieved beyond that. Ideally, your dentist should undertake an on-going program of dental training in the latest cosmetic and general dentistry techniques and technologies.

Make sure the dentist has training in procedures that you (or your children) may need. If you feel nervous about going to the dentist, for example, it's important to make sure the dentist is trained in sedation dentistry.

How experienced is the dentist?

Experience is one of the most important qualities to look for in a dentist. No matter what level of training a dentist has achieved, experience is the best teacher. Unless your dentist has been practicing for many years, he may have limited experience in performing dental procedures. Many routine procedures can be performed quite well by a new dentist, but it's always good to make sure you select a dentist who has learned in the real world as well as the classroom in case an unusual situation arises in your dental care.

How long has the dentist been in practice in the same community?

People don't go back to a dentist they don't like, especially for cosmetic procedures. A dentist that doesn't give good care often can't stay in business for long and may try moving around to many different communities. If a dentist has been practicing cosmetic and general dentistry in the same community for a long time, it's a good bet that the practice survives because the dentist does good work.

Are you comfortable with the dentist?

In the end, all these factors add up to trust. You need to feel that you can put yourself under that dentist's care. If the office or the dentist puts you ill at ease, leave immediately and find another place for your care.

To learn more about the experience and training of Dr. Tejas Patel at the Center of Cosmetic & General Dentistry in Austin, Texas, please contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.